Small Backyard Solutions

These are a few ideas for small yard makeovers. A stone path leads to an elevated stone patio and tranquil water feature.

 

This artful design creates an English cottage garden and effectively doubles the living space. The bluestone pavers form the foundation of a new patio, then alternate with bricks to create a meandering path to the back wall, where a simple pergola shades a bench.

Granite pavers laid on the diagonal make the space seem larger. The design called for a trellis atop the brick wall, but the wall wasn't strong enough for the bolts, so planters filled with boxwoods were installed to furnish the necessary privacy.

Want to increase the attractiveness of your veggie garden? Pitch out the concept of straight rows. Curved beds, stonework and a decorative piece turn the garden into an ornamental display.

Floating Umbrella

Space and Freedom- This cantilevered umbrella floats freely outside of your field of vision. Amalfi can be closed easily with our quality rope winch and crank. Secure is secure with the self locking gear- holds the shade tight at every position. This robust shade is made of 60×60 mm aluminum with a wall thickness of 4 mm. The Amalfi can be free standing or wall mount attached. Over 100 Dickson-Constant Fabric selections, 110 Powder Coated finishes and additional accessories are available. Customize your square or octagonal shade up to 13’2”.

I personally own the one pictured above and love it!!!!!!!!

Exotic Entertaining

Grounded by neutral colors and natural fibers, bold coral and turquoise are allowed to shine. "Dinnerware is like jewelry," says designer Jaime Rummerfield of Woodson and Rummerfield's House of Design. "Summer is the time to go big with striking patterns."


For a Look Like This:

Design Your Own Plates
$15
Available at Freddy & Ma
Water Hyacinth Pillows
$29 to $99
Available at West Elm

"It's great to have a signature style as a hostess, but I always add a surprise or twist. In this case, I added a punch of color. Yellow is a popular color to mix with blue, and it adds warmth."


Peggy Sewell, Contributing Editor, Southern Accents


Classic Menu: A Homey Brunch

For a Look Like This:

Bergamote Blue Tablecloth
$180
Available at DeVries & Dornbos
Rutherford Circle Plates by Kate Spade for Lenox
$17 to $26
Available at Dillard's

Natural fibers and textures -- from the wicker chairs to the woven placemats -- lend a cozy feel to this cottage dining area. The iron lantern overhead is a rustic substitute for the standard chandelier.


For a Look Like This:

Lloyd/Flanders Three-Season Vintage Armchair
$499
Available at L.L. Bean
Round Rattan Placemats
$39.50
Available at Sur La Table

Just because a get-together is laidback doesn't mean it can't be beautiful. Seasonal herbs and flowers, quaint table linens, and soft candlelight set the scene for an intimate gathering.



For a Look Like This:

Tate Lemon Placemats and Napkins
$4.95 (placemat), $3.95 (napkin)
Available at Crate & Barrel
Enchanted Forest Chandelier
$129
Available at Illuminations

Make a large dining room feel more intimate with a warm and inviting tablescape. Rich colors mixed with sterling silver pieces give the setting an aged patina.


Elegant Couples' Party


For a Look Like This:

Ivy Garland Dinner Plates by Anna Weatherly
$359
Available at Neiman Marcus
Fluted Cachepot
$105
Available at Charlotte Moss

This elegant mirrored table sets off the pinks, greens, and golds of the setting. New glassware and placemats are mixed with traditional china and silver for a glamorous vintage feel.


Glamorous Hearty Hors d'Oeuvres Affair

For a Look Like This:

"Indents" Glassware
$65 to $98
Available at Horchow
Crystal Beaded Napkin Rings
$2.99
Available at Linens N Things

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